FreshSSB batches start around the 1st & 15th of every month.
Delhi chokes on toxic smog; air quality panel flags ‘recurring negligence’ Delhi’s AQI touched 461 (“severe”) with dust from construction, MSW burning, and poor road maintenance identified as key causes. CAQM flagged repeated lapses by civic agencies, warning air quality may remain “very poor” for days.
Self-defence training classes help women pack a punch Delhi Police’s Nari Shakti/SPUWAC programmes are training women and girls in basic self-defence using simple techniques like elbows, kicks, and everyday objects. Over 20 police stations conducted sessions, improving confidence and personal safety awareness.
The right moment to boost India–Ethiopia ties With Ethiopia’s growing economy and BRICS membership, the article highlights opportunities in mining, defence, education, and renewables. Indian investments exceed $4 billion. Strong diaspora ties and defence cooperation can anchor a strategic partnership.
With new Bill, demand-led job scheme set to turn supply-driven The proposed VB-GRAM G Bill seeks to replace MGNREGA, raising guaranteed workdays from 100 to 125 but shifting to a supply-driven model. States’ funding share may rise to 40%, raising concerns over fiscal burden and dilution of rights-based employment.
The Oman visit is more than a routine diplomatic trip PM Modi’s Oman visit marks 70 years of ties, focusing on defence, maritime security, trade, energy, fintech, and connectivity. Cooperation on IMEC, green hydrogen, and joint defence production could deepen India’s strategic footprint in the Gulf.
PM Modi arrives in Jordan, says his visit will boost bilateral linkages PM Modi’s Jordan visit—the first in 37 years—aims to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and defence. India and Jordan signed diplomatic ties in 1950, with Jordan emerging as a key partner in West Asia.
SHANTI Bill to allow private sector to make, run nuclear power plants The SHANTI Bill proposes opening nuclear power to private and foreign participation by amending legacy laws, capping liability, and strengthening regulation. It aims to boost clean energy capacity, targeting 100 GW nuclear power by 2047.
Unemployment rate dips to 4.7% in November: PLFS India’s unemployment rate fell to 4.7% in November, lowest since April. Labour Force Participation Rate rose to 55.8%, driven mainly by rural areas. Female workforce participation also improved, indicating gradual labour market recovery.
Rupee breaches 91 level, turns weakest Asian currency in ’25 The rupee crossed 91 per dollar amid global dollar strength, capital outflows, and trade uncertainty. Economists note RBI intervention limited volatility, and controlled depreciation may support exports if inflation remains contained.
No fuel without valid PUC certificate from tomorrow Delhi barred vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control certificates from refuelling to curb emissions. AQI remained “very poor to severe.” Low visibility led to 131 flight cancellations at IGIA, highlighting the severity of the pollution crisis.
The three revolutions reshaping American power The article argues that recent U.S. strategy reflects three shifts: shrinking civic space domestically, a foreign policy built on conditional alliances, and restructuring global economic governance. Together, they normalise exclusion and hierarchy, reshaping American power through coercion rather than consensus.
Blatant foul Criticising the U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, the article calls it a violation of international law. It warns that such unilateral actions undermine sovereignty, escalate regional instability, and weaken global norms meant to prevent powerful states from acting with impunity.
India and the U.S.: 2005 versus 2025 Comparing two decades of ties, the piece notes a shift from shared optimism and strategic confidence to conditional partnership. The 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy frames India more instrumentally, emphasising burden-sharing and limits rather than transformative cooperation.
With PM in Jordan, Jaishankar in Israel, India reiterates its position on West Asian conflicts India reaffirmed its balanced West Asia policy, supporting dialogue, sovereignty, and a two-state solution. High-level engagements in Jordan and Israel underlined India’s focus on stability, counter-terrorism, connectivity, and infrastructure-led cooperation in the region.
India–Maldives joint military exercise EKUVERIN concludes The bilateral exercise EKUVERIN between India and Maldives focused on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism, and interoperability. Conducted over two weeks, it strengthened operational coordination and defence ties amid evolving security dynamics in the Indian Ocean region.
Rashtrapati Bhavan displays portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees Portraits of all Param Vir Chakra awardees were unveiled at Rashtrapati Bhavan to honour India’s highest gallantry recipients. The initiative preserves military heritage, educates visitors, and reinforces values of courage, sacrifice, and national service.
Indian Army receives final batch of Apache helicopters The Army inducted the last batch of AH-64E Apache helicopters, enhancing attack and close-air support capabilities. The induction strengthens operational readiness, especially on western fronts, and marks a key milestone in Army Aviation modernisation.
LS passes nuclear energy Bill allowing privatisation Lok Sabha passed the SHANTI Bill to open nuclear power to private and foreign participation. The Bill limits operator liability, retains government control over waste, and aims to expand clean energy capacity, though opposition raised concerns over safety and accountability.
India calls for safety as protesters march to mission in Dhaka India summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner after protesters marched to the Indian mission in Dhaka. New Delhi stressed the host nation’s responsibility to ensure safety and security of diplomatic premises under international conventions.
Record-high number of Indians deported from U.S. in 2025 Over 3,200 Indians were deported from the U.S. in 2025, the highest ever. Data shows bipartisan American support for tougher immigration enforcement, reflecting rising political consensus and stricter border and deportation policies.
How is the Aravalli range to be protected? The Supreme Court backed a uniform definition of the Aravalli range and tighter mining controls. The Centre plans large-scale restoration to combat desertification, protect groundwater, and revive degraded land, while allowing regulated mining under strict safeguards.
Why have Thailand–Cambodia border clashes flared up again? Fresh clashes erupted over the disputed Preah Vihear temple region, rooted in colonial-era boundaries. Mediation efforts, including U.S. intervention, seek de-escalation, but nationalism, military deployments, and unresolved sovereignty claims continue to fuel tensions.
RS passes Bill for 100% FDI in insurance sector The Rajya Sabha cleared a Bill allowing 100% foreign direct investment in insurance, permitting mergers and foreign ownership. The government says it will boost competition and coverage, while the Opposition flagged data privacy risks and sought parliamentary scrutiny.
Why have Thailand–Cambodia border clashes flared up again? Fresh clashes erupted near the disputed Preah Vihear temple area, rooted in colonial-era boundaries. Despite ceasefire efforts and mediation, nationalist sentiments, troop build-ups, and unresolved sovereignty claims continue to trigger periodic military confrontations.
India signs trade pact with Oman for duty-free exports India and Oman signed a CEPA granting India duty-free access to 98% of Omani tariff lines. The pact boosts trade, services, and worker mobility. India exported $4.06 billion to Oman in 2024–25, strengthening economic ties.
U.S. announces $10 billion in arms sales to Taiwan; China slams move The U.S. proposed its largest-ever arms package to Taiwan, including HIMARS and missiles. China condemned the move, warning it undermines regional stability and violates sovereignty, further escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
Don’t make ‘fatal mistake’ in Venezuela: Russia to U.S. Russia warned the U.S. against military or coercive actions in Venezuela, calling them a “fatal mistake.” Moscow accused Washington of destabilising the region through sanctions and pressure, while reaffirming support for the Maduro government.
The significance of a strong defence industrial base The article stresses that defence self-reliance is vital for India’s security and economy. Reforms under Make in India have boosted exports and private participation, but sustained policy support, R&D investment, and regulatory simplification are needed for global competitiveness.
Govt. to increase reservation for Agniveers in CAPFs to 50% The Home Ministry announced raising reservation for ex-Agniveers in Group C posts of CAPFs to 50%. The move aims to provide post-service employment security and marks a shift from earlier limited reservations.
Centre to set up a dedicated body to protect ports, ships The government will establish the Bureau of Port Security as a statutory body to oversee maritime and port security. Modeled on aviation security systems, it will assess threats, coordinate agencies, and strengthen protection of critical port infrastructure.
U.S. wants India’s nuclear norms globally aligned A U.S. defence law urges India to align nuclear liability norms with international standards following passage of the SHANTI Bill. Critics allege external pressure, while the government says reforms attract investment and harmonise India with global conventions.
Drogue parachute tests for Gaganyaan mission successful ISRO successfully conducted drogue parachute tests crucial for Gaganyaan’s crew module recovery. Conducted in Chandigarh, the tests validated deceleration and stabilisation systems essential for safe re-entry and crew safety during India’s human spaceflight mission.
Sachin Jangir Recommended for IMA 160 (AIR 140) & NDA 152 (AIR 128).
